Deadline: 06-Aug-2025
The U.S. Department of State is accepting applications for a project aimed at promoting secure digital connectivity in Paraguay.
The project focuses on three main goals: expanding internet access in rural areas, building institutional capacity for secure ICT delivery, and strengthening digital literacy across various demographics.
Ideal proposals will support one or more of the following objectives. First, they should enhance infrastructure planning and deployment by expanding rural internet access using secure, reliable equipment aligned with international standards and Paraguay’s 5G development goals. Second, they should strengthen institutional systems and foster public-private partnerships, including efforts like forming cybersecurity task forces or offering training for government officials. Third, they should promote safe digital usage by developing training programs on cybersecurity, data privacy, and secure online practices.
The funding range for this project is between $5,919,000 and $6,000,000. By the end of the project, grantees must demonstrate expanded rural internet access points, institutional development, and improved digital literacy.
To meet the infrastructure goal, grantees must coordinate with MITIC and CONATEL to create a workplan for site selection, determine equipment and service needs, and align efforts with national connectivity goals. The project may involve installing up to 3,600 internet access points at locations like family health units and public spaces. Equipment and services must meet regulatory standards, with internet coverage for up to five years, focusing on the first year of service.
To strengthen institutions, grantees should provide training and technical support to public bodies on managing internet services post-grant. An institutionalization plan must be created to maintain internet access points, including strategies for sourcing spare parts and service continuity.
For digital literacy, grantees must develop and deliver basic digital skills training to at least 50 rural communities by June 2027. Training should be conducted by local educators, supported by 200 community-based trainers. Public awareness campaigns must reach at least 100,000 individuals by September 2027 through various media channels and partnerships with local media and community leaders. Communities receiving internet access points must also receive training and resources to ensure effective use.
Eligible applicants include U.S.-based non-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, overseas-based NGOs with equivalent legal status, higher education institutions, public international organizations, and other qualified entities. Organizations based in Paraguay are strongly encouraged to apply.
Applicants must comply with U.S. laws and executive orders prohibiting support for individuals or groups associated with terrorism. This compliance requirement must be included in all sub-awards.
For more information, visit Grants.gov.
